Windhoek:More than 28,000 taxpayers have benefitted from the Tax Amnesty Programme, which is set to conclude on October 31, 2026. This information was presented by Minister of Finance Ericah Shafudah during the Mid-Year Budget Review in the National Assembly on Thursday.

According to NAMPA, Minister Shafudah highlighted that 28,157 taxpayers have successfully regularized their tax affairs through the programme, achieving its intended objective. She reassured that repayment arrangements made by taxpayers will continue to be honored. The government aims to uphold a fair, efficient, and sustainable tax system based on compliance, accountability, and shared responsibility and is exploring further relief measures for taxpayers.

The Minister also mentioned the government's review of the VAT zero-rating on sugar, noting its initial intent to provide consumer relief while acknowledging the health concerns associated with sugar consumption. Additionally, there are considerations to zero-rate import VAT on agricultural inputs and equipment to reduce food production costs domestically.

Minister Shafudah announced the development of a Medium-Term Revenue Strategy and a Debt Management Strategy, expected to be completed by February 2027. The government remains committed to previously announced tax policy and administrative reforms. Furthermore, efforts to combat illicit financial flows and suspicious tax-related transactions have resulted in the recovery of N$45 million.

The Income Tax Amendment Bill, which introduces the establishment of the Tax Court, has advanced to the National Assembly for further deliberation.